Role of UK Muslims pivotal in Zakat fund for refugees in 2025
UK Muslims urged to support Zakat fund as UNHCR reports growing impact of faith-based aid
LONDON (MNTV) — A new report by the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has revealed that Zakat contributions supported over 474,000 refugees in 2024, showcasing the growing role of faith-based giving in humanitarian aid.
Zakat is the obligation of giving 2.5% of one’s wealth to those in need once a year.
The annual Islamic Philanthropy Report, released by UNHCR, highlights that its Refugee Zakat Fund has provided assistance to more than 8.9 million people across 31 countries since its inception in 2017, reports Asian Image.
The fund is now endorsed by 17 Islamic institutions worldwide.
In response to global funding challenges, the UK for UNHCR has launched the 2025 Born Connected campaign to raise urgent funds for the Refugee Zakat Fund.
The initiative aims to deepen ties between UK Muslims and displaced families worldwide.
The campaign features UK-based Muslims sharing their motivations for donating Zakat to help refugees.
Leyla, from London, reflected on her family’s journey, saying: “I give my Zakat because my parents came to the UK as asylum seekers, and I want to give back to protect refugees.”
Similarly, Sarah from Bradford said: “I give my Zakat because helping refugees through trauma empowers them to rebuild their lives.”
The Refugee Zakat Fund provides essential aid in countries such as Yemen, Somalia, Lebanon, Bangladesh, and Iraq, ensuring access to food, shelter, healthcare, and education for displaced families.
Refugees in Syria and Sudan are identified as among the most vulnerable, with efforts expanding to address their urgent needs.
Khaled Khalifa, UNHCR’s representative to the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, expressed gratitude to donors, particularly UK Muslims, for their vital support.
“Muslim communities across the UK have been a shining example of compassion and solidarity,” he said.
“Through your Zakat, we send a powerful message to refugees: no matter the distance, they are not alone,” he added.
Emma Cherniavsky, CEO of UK for UNHCR, emphasized the critical role of Zakat. “For refugees who have lost everything, Zakat is a lifeline,” she said.
“We are deeply grateful to supporters across the UK who stand with refugees and ensure they are not forgotten,” she emphasized.
As Zakat donations continue to rise, the Refugee Zakat Fund demonstrates how faith-based giving is shaping global humanitarian efforts and providing hope to millions of displaced families.
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